High Carb Diets Induce the Precursors to Alzheimer's

A recent study indicates that eating more of carbohydrate rich food could be a cause of Alzheimer’s disease, in older men.

Alzheimer’s -An overview:

Alzheimer’s disease, affecting millions of people worldwide, is a progressive and neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the elderly. What makes it even more deadly is the fact that this disorder tends to worsen over time, eventually leading to death. On an average, a person can live for upto 7 years post diagnosis.

Alzheimer’s disease - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Stages, Types, Prevention, Prognosis & Treatment
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting memory and thinking and making the person increasingly dependent on others.

Though extensive research is being carried out, scientists are still unable to discover a cure for this disorder. Alzheimer’s, in the early stage, presents symptoms like dizziness, trouble remembering recent incidents, forgetfulness, moody behavior, all of which are often ignored as manifestations of stress.

How a high carb diet could cause Alzheimer’s:

A recent study in the US suggests that a diet rich in carbohydrates could be the cause of development of Alzheimer’s in men post 65 years of age. Older men consuming high carb diets are four times more at the risk of developing mild cognitive impairment, which is precursor to Alzheimer’s. A high carbohydrate diet messes up with your sugar and insulin metabolism, which can be harmful to your brain. Proteins and fats, on the other hand, demonstrated protection against Alzheimer’s.

Quiz On Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. Participate in this quiz to find out how much you know about this debilitating disease.

Apart from a high carb diet, numerous other factors like cardiovascular conditions (hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, smoking, and hypertension), long term use of NSAID’s (no-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) etc are thought to induce dementia in elderly men.

Dealing with dementia:

Coping up with Alzheimer’s can be tough, both to the individual and to his family members. Listed below are a few tips that can help delay or even stop the onset of this disease.

• Choosing a Mediterranean diet: A Mediterranean diet is thought to delay the onset of Alzheimer’s to a considerable extent. Include more fruits and vegetables, breads, wheat and other cereals, red wine and fish to keep Alzheimer’s at bay.

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During an earlier insight, researchers found that a cup of coffee not only gives the much needed energy shot, but also prevents the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

• Use turmeric: Curcumin, a component of turmeric is found be effective in reducing brain damage.

• Engage in intellectual activities: Keeping your mind busy post 60’s is a good idea. Solving puzzles, playing chess and interacting socially can lower your risk by 40%.

• Get a caffeine boost: Sipping down 3-5 cups of coffee a day can cut down your risk of Alzheimer’s upto 65%.

Moderate exercise and learning a second language later in life have also demonstrated positive impacts in warding away Alzheimer’s.

Reference:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15082091

Source-Medindia